When is an E-Type not an E-Type? Well, when it’s a Challenger. Intrigued? You should be. Because every inch of what you’re seeing in these photos looks pure Series 1 E-Type, doesn’t it? In enthusiast circles, the Challenger is known as being the very best that it’s possible to achieve in replicating an early E-Type, with period literature suggesting that ‘even to the experts, it’s virtually indistinguishable from the genuine car – and a properly built and maintained example will handle better and outperform the original’.

The essence of the car is a spaceframe chassis that’s 20% stiffer than Jaguar’s original, maintaining all authentic parameters including the correct track and wheelbase. A donor XJ6 was used for the engine, transmission, suspension, braking system and so on (hence the V5 listing the car as an XJ6, and the presence of said XJ6’s Heritage certificate) – so it drives just as well as a genuine E-Type… in fact, arguably, even better.

This particular Challenger is very special indeed, as it’s been looked after and maintained with an almost unbelievable amount of love and care. The enormous file of documentation lists out nigh-on every journey the car’s ever made (including fuel consumption, mileage and all), with countless receipts and invoices documenting every iota of the build and the ownership journey. Originally built between 1991-96, this car has been lovingly maintained, cherished and enjoyed ever since. As such, it's simply wonderful to drive today – and as you cruise down the street, nobody can tell that it’s not an original Series 1. 

Naturally, there will always be a premium to pay for originality and authenticity. But this Challenger offers a sensational alternative – you can enjoy the entire experience for just a fraction of the price of a Jaguar E-Type. 
 

 

 

The cabin is beautifully finished, and there isn’t a hint of the ‘kit car’ feel that a cynic might expect; indeed, it all feels absolutely authentic, from the correct dash, dials and switchgear to the steering wheel and seats. Aside from the ever-so-slightly wider transmission tunnel, there’s nothing to give away its status as a Challenger. 

It’s all in lovely condition too, with tastefully trimmed seats demonstrating the very gentlest patina, along with good carpets, a decent stereo and a 12v socket in the glovebox. The car is also fitted with an alarm and immobiliser. 
Inside the boot it’s all dry and tidy, with a spare wire wheel. 

 

Impressive to behold, isn’t it? The attention to detail in creating the Challenger means that all of the proportions and details are correct; indeed, it’s worth noting that the panel gaps and the fit and finish are better than a number of E-Types out there; it feels like a solid and substantial creation that’s been built right. 

The light lenses and window glass are all in good condition, and the chrome trim is gleaming. The car wears a pretty set of wire wheels, and the tyres have plenty of tread. 

The soft-top hood stows neatly and raises freely, taking just a little stretch to latch it in place to ensure a good snug fit. The hood’s in good condition, with no marks or damage and a nice clear window pane. 

 

It’s all Jaguar under the skin, with the mechanicals all being borrowed from the same donor XJ6. Said donor was a Series 2 XJ6 4.2, and its engine, transmission, suspension and brakes are working in harmony here just as they did in their previous saloon-shaped home. The engine was fully rebuilt in 2001 and it’s still in very fine fettle today; it starts easily, idles evenly, and pulls keenly through the revs. Jaguar aficionados will be aware of some Jags’ keenness for overheating, so it’s reassuring to note that the radiator on this car is pretty massive – so the needle on the dial stays just where you want it to be! 

The car rides beautifully with no knocks, creaks or rattles, it all feels very solid. Indeed, it’s magnificent to drive – dare we say that it’s even better than a real Series 1…? 

 

This beautifully finished Challenger represents a great opportunity. Yes, you could spend six figures on a Series 1, and then leave it in the garage under a dust-sheet and be afraid to take it out in the rain… or you could spend less than half that on this impressively authentic creation, which provides everything that an E-Type ought to and does so using genuine Jaguar componentry – and this would be a car you could happily use every day. Take it shows, sure, but also nip to the shops, or go off on holiday, or visit the in-laws, or seek out a country pub. The Challenger offers what E-Types used to offer before their values skyrocketed: usability coupled with adventure.   


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